Press Releases

AG Kilmartin Urges Congress to Act on Immigration Reform

Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin, along with 34 fellow attorneys general nationwide, today wrote to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder and congressional leaders urging support for federal immigration reform that improves the immigration system, keeps communities safe and protects America's borders. While immigration is primarily a federal responsibility, Attorney General Kilmartin, as the state's top prosecutor, expressed the need for an immigration policy with the safety and security of the United States as the top priority.

"Generations of immigrants have helped shape Rhode Island's culture and history, and have made significant contributions to our state's economy," said Attorney General Kilmartin. "But in order to maintain the safety and security of our state – and our nation – it is imperative that a consistent federal immigration policy be implemented to ensure that our communities are protected. I urge Congress to enact immigration policy that balances the demands of our economic needs, and the contributions immigrants make as workers and consumers, with the mandates crucial to keeping our neighborhoods safe."

The attorneys general stated their support for a law enforcement strategy that focuses on public safety, targets serious crime, safeguards witnesses and victims, and considers national security implications for porous borders.

They further urged a reasonable and predictable regulatory environment that considers the interests of, and the unintended consequences to, businesses, workers and consumers. A broader reform effort should eventually include a way to accurately, reliably and affordably determine who is permitted to work, ensuring an adequate labor force for a growing economy.